Punit Balan Group Donates ₹3 Crore to Support Ganesh Mandal Workers

In a significant move to uplift Ganesh mandal workers, entrepreneur Punit Balan has announced a financial initiative through the Punit Balan Group (PBG), allocating ₹3 crore to assist these workers in establishing their own enterprises. This announcement was made during a recent felicitation ceremony held in honor of Balan’s birthday, where he was celebrated by members of various Ganesh mandals and dhol-tasha troupes. During the event, Balan performed the aarti of Shri Siddhivinayak Ganpati at Sarasbaug, followed by a citation presented to him by Akhil Mandai Mandal President Annasaheb Thorat and senior worker Suresh Pawar from Nimbalkar Talim Mandal. Balan emphasized the often-misunderstood role of mandal workers, stating that society tends to view them negatively, despite their significant contributions and sacrifices made during the Ganesh festival. Balan highlighted the importance of supporting these workers, who dedicate considerable time and effort to their mandals, often at the expense of their personal and professional lives. He expressed his commitment to providing annual assistance to 100-300 workers, with plans to increase funding each year, reinforcing the notion that mandal workers are essential to the fabric of Ganesh celebrations. The initiative received enthusiastic support from the gathered mandal workers and community members, including notable figures such as Ramesh Bhagwat and Prasad Kulkarni, who were present to witness this landmark moment for the Ganesh mandal community.